Community Eligibility Provision

The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) is a new, innovative program that makes it easier for high-need schools to serve free meals to all students. The Healthy, Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010 requires CEP to become a nationwide option for the 2014-15 school year. Currently, 11 states are piloting CEP opportunities. To determine if CEP is right for you, MDE has provided a flow chart “Decision Tree” document below titled, “Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) Decision Tree.”

In order to participate, local education authorities and/or schools must meet a minimum level of identified students for free meals, agree to serve free lunches and breakfasts to all students; and agree to cover (with non-federal funds) any costs of providing free meals to all students above amounts provided in federal assistance. View more information on the Community Eligibility Provision.

U.S. Department of Agriculture Memos and ResourcesLinks to key USDA memos and resources on the Community Eligibility Provision are provided below.

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STEM Forum and Expo, May 20-23!

National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) is hosting their national STEM forum in Minnesota in May. This unique, STEM-focused event is where educators gather to share tools and resources for implementing STEM education into schools and communities. What makes this event so different? The people presenting! One of whom is our own Doug Paulson, agency STEM Specialist. Visit NSTA site to learn more.